How to choose the best size mattress for your needs.
Sleep is very important for your health, and a good mattress might be the difference between a restless night and a restful restorative sleep. If you have back pain or problems, a good mattress is even more important.
What is a good mattress?
A good mattress doesn't have to cost thousands and the same mattress isn't the best for everyone. A good mattress for you means the right size, firmness, and price to fit your needs.
How to Determine the Best Mattress for Your Needs
Did you know mattresses have coil counts just like sheets have thread counts. An orthopedic mattress must have a coil count of at least 312. The higher the coil count the higher the quality of mattress. You want a high coil count and a thick, heavy gauge of steel for firmness and durability. Note: The lower the steel gauge the stronger - for example a 15 is thicker than a 16.
Size
Twin 39" x 75"
Extra Long Twin 38" x 80"
Full or Double 54" x 75"
Extra Long Full 54" x 80"
Queen 60" x 80"
King 76" x 80"
California Queen 60" x 84"
California King 72" x 84"
Note: Queen size mattresses are currently the most popular, being more than 30% of all mattresses sold.
Boxsprings
Boxsprings are very important for the durability of your mattress. Boxsprings support and extend the life of a mattress. Many manufacturers won't offer a warranty if boxspring and mattress are not purchased together. Queen and king size mattress sets require a center support on the bed frame for good support. King mattresses usually come with a two-piece boxspring for the best support.
Cushion
While support and firmness comes from the coils and springs in a mattress, comfort comes from the padding on top. You can choose from many levels of cushioning or padding ranging from firm to plush. You can determine the cushion by how many layers of padding the mattress contains. Beware of special foams that store owners offer as a sale item. These may be of a poor quality and not really "special" at all.
How to Choose
Your best bet is to visit a mattress store with plenty of time to explore and talk to a salesperson. Try out the mattresses. Ask about the differences in support, comfort, and special considerations. Take advantage of the expert training and information a salesperson can provide you, but don't feel pressured to buy on the first visit.
Price
A good mattress is an investment - in your health. Mattress can range in price from a couple hundred to a couple thousand. Do your homework and know what you can spend. There's a quality mattress out there in your price range. A basic queen set costs around $500, with better quality ranging from $600-800 and the top of the line going for over a $1,000.
Make a Checklist
What do you need in a mattress? What are the most important features and factors? What sleep difficulties or body pains do you experience?
When to Replace a Mattress
How long do mattresses last? The standard answer is ten to fifteen years. But you will need to examine the wear and tear on your mattress and evaluate whether it is meeting your needs to determine whether it's time for a new one. Does your mattress sag? Do you wake up sore and stiff?
Caring for Your Mattress
Do you rotate your mattress just like you rotate the tires on your car? Rotating your mattress helps it last longer and helps you sleep more comfortably. Here's an easy rule: Rotate your mattress every time you change the sheets - about once every two weeks or so. This will provide optimum comfort and minimum wear.
Keep In Mind
New mattresses are thicker and your old sheets might not fit, but these new thicker mattresses are more comfortable and last longer. Be sure to buy a matching set of mattress and boxspring. Look for a mattress with a warranty of at least ten years. This is the industry standard. Be sure to try out a mattress before you buy. Do your homework and know all the various kinds of mattresses available to ensure the best choice. Keep in mind special consideration like your height, weight, whether you'll be sharing the bed with a partner, whether you expect to become pregnant, back problems and pains, preferred cushion level and firmness. Know what you want and need from a mattress and don't settle for less than the best match.
